The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Have you ever considered that problems with your mouth can influence the rest of your body or that your oral health can provide information about your general health? Learn more about how your oral and general health are related to protecting yourself.

How is your oral and general help connected? 

Your mouth is packed with germs, most of which are harmless, like other body parts. Yet, a few of these germs can spread disease as your mouth serves as the entrance to your digestive and respiratory systems. Bacteria are often kept in check by the body’s natural defenses and proper oral hygiene practices like daily brushing and flossing. But without good dental hygiene, bacteria may build up to the point where they cause oral infections including tooth decay and gum disease. According to studies, many disorders may be influenced by oral bacteria and the inflammation brought on by a severe form of gum disease. 

What’s the connection?

Having bad oral health can lead to a number of complications and diseases that can majorly affect the rest of your body. Some of these diseases include: 

Pneumonia: Pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses can be brought on by certain bacteria in your mouth that can be drawn into your lungs.

Endocarditis: When bacteria or other germs from another area of your body, such as your mouth, migrate through your bloodstream and attach to specific locations in your heart, an infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves can develop.

There are also preexisting conditions that can negatively affect your oral health and lead to further complications and disease. Some of these include:

Osteoporosis: Bone loss and tooth loss are both associated with this bone-weakening condition.

Diabetes: Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease by lowering the body’s ability to fight off infection. Those with diabetes seem to experience gum disease more frequently and severely.

Best ways to have good oral hygiene

  • Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes each time.
  • Thoroughly floss daily.
  • Wash your mouth with mouthwash after brushing your teeth.
  • Visit your dentist a minimum of twice a year, and contact your dentist if you have any pain or discomfort in your mouth.

Good dental hygiene can save you a lot of trouble and complications in the future. Newton Dental Associates is your local one-stop shop for all your oral and dental needs. We have a staff full of accomplished dental industry professionals waiting to assist you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at (617) 965-0060 or emailing nda@newtondentalassociates.com.

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From tooth cleaning to whitening, to full makeovers and total facial esthetics, Newton Dental Associates is a place for everyone.